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Tools for Smoothing Gunite in Swimming Pools

By Misty Faucheux; Updated September 21, 2017

Gunite looks similar to concrete except that it's made of a combination of aggregate and cement, and it is supported by either rebar or steel meshing. Gunite is often used in making pools since it retains its shape even under the weight of the water. Gunite -- which is used to make the interior surface (floor, steps and sides) of pools, especially of inground ones -- is an alternative to fiberglass and lined swimming pools. While gunite pools are not as popular as the two other types, gunite pools are more customizable since you can shape it like concrete. If your gunite becomes rough, however, smooth it out to keep from injuring yourself, especially your feet. Always completely empty your pool and let it dry before using these tools.

Sander

If you have a large pool, then start with a floor sander. A floor sander looks similar to a vacuum cleaner, except it has an abrasive surface on the base of the head. This is a simple push-behind tool with a long handle. For quick sand jobs, use a belt sander. A belt sander has a rotating pad over which you place a piece of sandpaper. This tool quickly grinds away at your gunite.

Small Grinders

For small jobs, you can also use grinders. An angle grinder has a fast rotating blade that is only partially exposed. The other half is hidden with a crescent-moon shaped metal piece. This tool works well for grinding down angles, edges and ends of items. It usually has two handles to help you better control the movement of it and to decrease the amount of vibrations that you feel. You can use this tool for overhead grinding.

Another type of small grinder is the 7-inch hand grinder. The blade of this grinder sits flat, and you rub it along the surface that you want to smooth out. This tool is mainly for floor grinding, and it spins very fast. The hand grinder is heavier than the angle grinder, and it can cause arm strain after a while.

Large Grinder

The largest type of grinder is the walk-behind, which is another type of floor grinder. If you have a large pool, use this grinder. This grinder works similar to the floor sander, except that is more aggressive, and it will break up large chucks of exposed gunite. This grinder has different grinding wheels that move in different directions, eliminating the need to make multiple passes. The tool will completely grind an area in a single pass.

Edger

For the edges of your pool, use either a hand or a walking edger since both of these tools smooth out rough sections along your pool lip. The main difference between these tools is that you attach the walking edger to a pole, and you operate the hand edger with your hand.

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About the Author

Misty Faucheux became a freelance writer in 1998 and has been an editor since 2004. She has written for a variety of websites and blogs, specializing in topics ranging from digital photography to computer systems to digital media. Faucheux received a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Loyola University New Orleans.